Victims of school bullying more likely to suffer mental problems in adulthood

Being bullied at school can leave mental scars which take a lifetime to heal, according to new research.

Scientists in the United States came to this conclusion after observing more than 1,000 people from the age of nine years old until adulthood. They found that victims of playground bullying are far more likely to experience feelings of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

The information could be interesting to those on psychotherapy courses, who will learn about the potential reasons why patients could be suffering from depression.

According to globeandmail.co.uk, approximately a quarter of those observed in the study experienced some form of childhood bullying. Boys were just as likely to be bullied as girls.

Evaluating the 20-year study, lead author Dr William Copeland claimed he was surprised by how long the effects of bullying could potentially last.

He told standard.co.uk: "This psychological damage doesn't just go away because a person grew up and is no longer bullied. This is something that stays with them. If we can address this now, we can prevent a whole host of problems down the road."

Bullies were also found to have an increased likelihood of suffering from these mental problems once they reached adulthood as well.